Carving Her Path: Romblon’s Lone Woman Marble Artist
In Romblon’s male-dominated marble industry, one woman stands at her workbench daily, transforming stone into art.
Key Facts
Name: Ana Reyes
Age: 34
Years sculpting: 11
Works produced: 87
Ana says: “The stone doesn’t care if you’re male or female. It only responds to skill.”
Breaking Into a Male World
1. Industry Background
97% of Romblon sculptors are male
Workshops typically family-run
Heavy physical work deters many women
2. Ana’s Start
Began as assistant at 23
Learned by observing
First solo piece at 26
3. Current Standing
Only woman with own studio
Sells to international clients
Trains two apprentices
The Sculpting Process
1. Material Selection
Chooses Romblon’s famous white marble
Tests stone quality by sound
Rejects flawed blocks
2. Creation Steps
Hand sketches first
Rough shaping with power tools
Fine detailing with chisels
Final polishing
3. Time Investment
Small pieces: 1-2 weeks
Medium works: 1-3 months
Large commissions: up to 1 year
Challenges Faced
1. Industry Resistance
Initial refusal to sell her raw materials
Clients doubting her capabilities
Workshop exclusion
2. Physical Demands
Lifting heavy stone blocks
Dust inhalation risks
Long hours standing
3. Social Pressure
“Not women’s work” comments
Marriage expectations
Few female role models
Notable Achievements
1. Major Works
Municipal hall centerpiece
Manila gallery exhibition
Private collector commissions
2. Recognition
Provincial artisan award
National craft feature
International orders
3. Changing Perceptions
3 local girls now interested
Male peers seek collaboration
Tourism department support
Daily Work Reality
5:30 AM – Studio opens
7:00 AM – Heavy cutting
10:00 AM – Detail work
1:00 PM – Client meetings
4:00 PM – Apprentice training
7:00 PM – Design planning
Tools of the Trade
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Point chisel | Rough shaping |
| Tooth chisel | Texturing |
| Flat chisel | Smoothing |
| Rasps | Fine shaping |
| Sandpaper | Final polish |
Why Her Work Matters
Proves ability has no gender
Preserves local craftsmanship
Expands market possibilities
Inspires next generation
How to Support Women in Craft
Commission works from female artisans
Share their stories on social platforms
Visit workshops when traveling
Fund training for young artists
Questions Worth Asking
What talents do gender barriers hide?
How can traditions evolve?
What makes you dismiss certain jobs?
The answers might surprise you.